Costa Rican Delights

13 days, Guided, Minimum 2 People, Seasonal Daily Departures

Costa Rica seems to have a bit of everything; Pacific and Caribbean coasts, volcanoes, jungles, wildlife, rainforest, cloud forest and groovy tunes! This, the most developed Central American country, lends itself beautifully to a holiday of a lifetime. Walk through tropical forests where you will hear the screech of the Howler Monkey and see plenty of cheeky monkeys, iguanas and brightly coloured Scarlet Macaws.

Cruise through the rainforest by boat and swing from the cloud forest heights on a canopy trail. If this is not enough there is the quietly active Arenal volcano to sizzle your senses or perhaps a quiet evening stroll along a sandy beach. Every day brings a new experience on this truly unique itinerary walking through a variety of terrain in the wildest and most romantic parts of Costa Rica.

Day 1. Outbound

Fly to San Jose and transfer to your hotel.

Days 2 and 3. Rara Avis Rainforest Reserve

Travelling through the Braullio Carillo National Park you enter the pristine wilderness of the Rara Avis private reserve. From your lodge in the remote heart of true wilderness you will learn how this project demonstrates new ways of saving the rainforest. At 700 metres the climate stays cool and mosquitoes stay away! Expert guides take you on trails so you can experience the richness and splendour of the most diverse environment on earth.

Days 4 and 5. Selva Verde Reserve and Sarapiqui River Cruise

Transfer to the Selva Verde area for a completely different view of the rainforest - a navigation of the Sarapiqui River. Numerous species of animals can be appreciated from your boat - monkeys, exotic birds, crocodiles and river turtles amongst many and the journey provides a delightful way to observe the flora along the riverbanks. Your lodge here has an inviting pool - maybe a green iguana will watch you from the trees!

Days 6 and 7. Arenal Volcano

Early risers can take advantage of the 500 acre private reserve and perhaps spot toucans and hummingbirds whizzing past and red poison frogs lurking in the undergrowth. Transfer to the stunningly scenic area of Arenal, an imposing conical volcano surrounded in all its glory by lush green landscape. Although Arenal has not erupted violently for 25 years, it is said to be one of the world's most active volcanoes with a constant flow of red lava and smoking blocks tumbling down the steep slopes. Enjoy the most extraordinary views on the Cerro Chato hike through very dense primary forest along the base of this marvellous "Mountain of Fire".

Days 8 and 9. Monteverde and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserves

Crossing the Arenal Lake brings you to the Monteverde/Santa Elena area. A trip to Costa Rica is not complete without experiencing the cool climes and fresh air of the Monteverde area. This is one of the most important reserves in Central America with majestic tall trees festooned with orchids, bromeliads, ferns and vines. The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is the best introduction to a cloud forest. One of its main characteristics is the high level of humidity creating an abundant and diverse flora and fauna. Track Howler Monkeys, Tapirs, Ocelots, Pumas and the richly colourful Resplendent Quetzal. Take an exciting adventure on the high canopy trails where you can admire the entire height of the forest - from the giant dangling roots sweeping across the ground to the tiny epiphytes growing at the tops (from a 46 metre high swing bridge!).

Day 10. The Pacific Coast

Now one can truly appreciate Costa Rica's great diversity. Travel down through the Guanacaste lowlands, an area known as 'sabana' or 'cowboy country', to the Gulf of Nicoya. At Samara Beach you can enjoy the delights of this thriving fishing community and relax on nearby Isla Chora, a picturesque wooded island with a superb coral reef. Chill out and go for a swim in this protected Pacific bay - the perfect way to end your trip.

Days 11 to 13. Homeward

After a final morning relaxing on the beach, depart for the night in San Jose. Continue home on the overnight flight back to the UK.